Advantages Of Laser In Dentistry

New science and technologies are already making their way into all aspects of dental practice and have changed the traditional approaches, which require that students and practitioners receive the necessary knowledge.1 Dental laser is one of the most significant developments in modern dentistry. Lasers were introduced into the field of Dentistry in 1960s, with the hope of overcoming some of the drawbacks posed by the conventional methods of dental procedures.2 Conventional methods of cavity preparation with low and high speed handpieces involve noise, uncomfortable vibrations and stress for patients.3 These disadvantages have led to a search for new techniques as possible alternatives for dental hard and soft tissue removal.3 Different laser

In addition to its uses in hard tissue preparation (bone and tooth preparation) and soft tissue surgery, laser treatment in combination with composite or glass ionomer restorations, or in the treatment of hypersensitive teeth are examples of different application areas.4–6 Furthermore, laser is important in canal disinfection and in behavior management in Pediatric Dentistry.7,8 In order to practice laser safely and effectively in different disciplines of Dentistry, it is essential to have a good knowledge of laser physics, laser operation, different types of laser and which type of laser is appropriate for each case. In view of the increasing availability of new technologies in dental practices and the need for more education and training, this survey was conducted to assess the educational level and knowledge of the uses of laser in Dentistry among the final year dental students in Saveetha dental

Education at dental school is the most important source of professional knowledge for the dental students as they rely and depend on the information they are provided in dental school.9 This study provides a general view about dental laser education and knowledge among final year dental students at Saveetha dental college. Most of the dental students know the term ‘‘laser’’, however, this survey in general assessed some basic knowledge of dental students regarding the uses of laser in dentistry. Their knowledge in laser physics, different wavelengths, different types of laser and which type of laser is most appropriate for each case were not assessed. The specific properties of the laser radiation and applications need to be understood in order to practice dental laser effectively and to evade therapeutic mistakes. As reported by the 4% of students, only 3 hrs was the average time for dental laser education they got during their study in the full 5 year dental college program. Majority of the students did not have laser education. This reflects that inadequate knowledge in dental laser applications was related to insufficient education. In addition, this result reveals that our dental students are dependent on the education and practice they have in the college as a source for their knowledge, such as other dental students in different country.9 Majority of